5 Essential Tips for Student Moving in Gainesville, Florida

Posted 2014-10-01 By Jordan Speisman

Find out what you will (and won’t) need.
Most residence halls are furnished, but students moving in Gainesville, Florida should double-check what’s included with the room. A typical dorm room is outfitted with beds, desks and dressers, but you should always make sure—just in case. In addition, find out how big the room is. Contact the resident’s association at your university and ask for copies of floor plans of whatever unit you decide to move in to, whether it’s a single, double or triple.
Set up utilities beforehand.
Anyone moving into local houses or apartments in Gainesville should call local electric, water, cable and Internet companies and set up accounts beforehand. What’s more disappointing than moving in and realizing the lights don’t work and there’s no Internet connection? Nothing, so make sure you are prepared. If you have any questions then ask your landlord, or apartment manager to steer you in the right direction.
Consolidate.
While long-distance moves are priced by volume and weight, local moves are priced by volume and time. In either case, more stuff means a heftier bill. While packing, keep in mind which items you’ll need, which items can sell or which items can be thrown away. If you own luggage, bags or coolers, consider how you can use them as packing devices.
Take advantage of student discounts.
College students have been known to get discounts on software, electronics and other essentials. Whether you’re picking up packing supplies, a new couch or some groceries, it never hurts to ask if the store or company offers student discounts.
Don’t pay for packing material.
Your laptops and TVs may be precious, but you don’t need to spend money on packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Consider what you already own. Dishtowels, T-shirts and pillows are handy for filling space between fragile items, and odds are you already own them. Grocery stores and wholesale markets (like Costco and Sam’s Club) will give you cardboard boxes for free if you ask, and cheap blankets are available at thrift stores to cover furniture. Frugality is a college student’s best friend!